Discovering Japan: The Golden Route FAM Trip (With a Few Surprises!)
If there’s anywhere in the world that manages to be both ultra-modern and timelessly traditional at the same time, it’s Japan. I recently had the privilege of exploring the Golden Route with Travel Counsellors—a ten-day journey packed with bullet trains, ancient shrines, meticulous gardens, dazzling neon, and experiences I won’t soon forget (not least of which involved karaoke and a certain onsen adventure…). Here’s a glimpse behind the scenes of my whirlwind Fam trip.
Tokyo: Temples, Taiyaki, and Disney Dreams
Touching down in Tokyo, we barely had time to adjust our watches before heading out for a magical first night at DisneySea. There’s something about Disney’s sparkling lights and themed worlds that makes even the most seasoned traveller smile, jetlag and all.
Our first full day took us to the heart of old Tokyo in Asakusa. With the help of our expert guide, we explored more than just Sensoji Temple—we wandered down quirky backstreets and tried our hand at making Taiyaki (those Instagram-famous fish-shaped pastries—highly recommended).
Nagoya: Craft, Castle, and a Night to Remember
Riding the Shinkansen was every bit as sleek as you’d imagine. In Nagoya, we learned the art of Arimatsu Shibori tie-dye (mine turned out…unique) before drifting through Endoji’s retro streets to a peaceful tea ceremony. Night brought a lively izakaya dinner, followed by the classic “snack bar hopping” adventure—think retro lounge vibes, friendly locals, and karaoke that ranges from impressive to, well, enthusiastic.
Nagoya Castle the next morning was grand, particularly with our expert guide giving us the lowdown on all things Samurai and Shogun. Osu Shopping Arcade was a maze of street food and shops so of course we had to buy some souvenirs to bring home.
Coastal Mie: Ryokan Nights and Onsen Culture
From city lights we shifted to Kashikojima in Mie. Here, we checked into a traditional ryokan—think tatami mats on the floor and a minimalist beauty you instantly appreciate… right after you figure out how to turn your futon into a bed. Pro tip: raid the cupboard for extra mats! I may have constructed a four-mat cloud and slept like royalty.
No mention of a ryokan stay would be complete without talking about the onsen—a bathhouse experience done the classic Japanese way: in the buff. Let’s just say, stripping off in the presence of total strangers is an ice-breaker like no other, but after a few minutes you’ll relax and start to see why the locals love it.
The Ama Divers: A Nod to the Adventurous Eater
One of the absolute highlights was meeting the legendary Ama divers—fearless women who free-dive for pearls and seafood. Lunch at their Ama Hut was eye-opening and just a touch reminiscent of a Bushtucker Trial. Seafood so fresh, some of it was side-eyeing me back. I gamely tried everything (well almost!), and, honestly, left with massive respect for both the cuisine and its creators. You don’t get these sorts of culinary adventures at home!
Ise, Nara & Asuka: Spiritual Roots and Living History
We watched pearls being formed at Mikimoto Pearl Island and paid our respects at Ise Jingu, Japan’s holiest Shinto shrine, set among ancient cedar forests. The spiritual atmosphere is something you really have to feel for yourself—and, conveniently, there’s a street of local shops nearby for souvenir hunting and yet more snacks.
Nara delivered with its famous bowing deer (be warned: they’re enthusiastic snack-seekers), the magnificent Great Buddha at Todai-ji, and peaceful Kasuga Taisha, lanterns aglow. I also brushed up on sake etiquette in the historic merchant quarters—strictly for research purposes, of course.
Exploring rural Asuka the next day was like stepping back in time, from ancient burial mounds to panoramic countryside views. Cafés here serve the freshest local fare, and everywhere you look there’s another piece of Japan’s fascinating past.
Kyoto & Osaka: Icons and Farewells
We managed a day in iconic Kyoto—wandering through Arashiyama’s Bamboo Grove, standing in awe before the gold leaf brilliance of Kinkaku-ji, losing ourselves in the historic Gion district and posing for the essential Fushimi Inari Torii gate snap.
Our time in Osaka was limited, but we ventured to explore the buzzing nightlife of Dotonburi and the neon-lit food streets serving up everything from takoyaki to the fluffiest pancakes on Earth.
All the Fun, None of the Fuss
If there’s one takeaway from this trip, it’s that Japan truly delivers on the wow-factor—layer upon layer of culture, food, and hospitality, rounded off with that unique dose of quirkiness you can only find here. Ready to sleep on a pile of futons or brave a traditional onsen yourself? Let’s chat! I can’t wait to help you plan your own unforgettable journey through Japan (extra futons and karaoke options available on request).
You can see all of my photos and videos of this trip on my Instagram page highlights here: https://www.instagram.com/stories/highlights/17904871848144280/
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